“It’s a test of character and the last thing we want to do is mope around, finish 10th and then use the excuse that we had a bad start,” said the England international.
“It is a case of being in a good position, kick on and we do have a lot to play for.”
Meanwhile, former Everton winger Andy van der Meyde has joined PSV Eindhoven until the end of the season.
The Dutchman was a free agent since leaving at the end of last season despite strong interest in his signature from Blackburn Rovers and Hull City.
Van der Meyde arrived at Goodison from Inter in 2005 but made only 24 appearances during a stay that was hampered by injury and off-field distractions.
The 30-year-old passed a medical examination at PSV before signing a deal until the end of the campaign with an option to extend.
And van der Meyde said: “I get the chance to play football at a big club again. I hope I can bring something extra.”
Everton’s Premier League visit to Manchester City has been rearranged for Wednesday, March 24 with a 7.45pm kick-off.
